Originally published on February 15, 2023, this article has been updated on September 23, 2023 to reflect the latest research and statistics. Our editorial team has ensured you’re viewing the most current data on this topic. Need help or have a question? Email us.
Buying a new cat is not just a simple case of paying the adoption fee and walking away with your new family pet. There are many other costs involved in owning a cat. Some of these are obvious, while others are more subtle, the smaller expenses that accumulate over time.
I have always owned cats. My family was heavily involved in the Cats Protection charity in the UK. My father still works for them today.
Having been involved in pet ownership from both sides of the coin, I understand and appreciate the importance of understanding the full spectrum of the costs involved in owning a cat.
The following collection of statistics outlines everything you could ever need to know about how much cats cost.
Top 10 Most Fascinating Financial Stats
- The Capital Cost for a Cat Is up to $365
- The Average Range to Adopt a Cat from a Shelter Is $50 to $175
- Buying a Cat from a Breeder Can Cost $750 or Even More
- Vaccination and Veterinary Care Can Cost from $300 to $550
- Cat Food Can Cost Almost $225 to $870
- Up to $40 to $50 Could Be Spent on Treats
- Grooming Can Cost up to $30-$100
- The Average Basic Health Care Cost of a Cat Is $500 per Year
- The Initial Setup and Supply Can Cost from $160 to $450
- The First Year of Cat Ownership Can Cost from $805 to $3710
How Much Does a Cat Cost
Considering getting a cat but worried about the cost? While it can vary depending on breed and age, the first year will cost at least $805 to $3710 and about $575 to $1690 each year after.
However, the joy and love they bring into your life is priceless. Plus, adopting a cat from a shelter not only saves a life but it’s also a rewarding experience. So, don’t let the numbers scare you away from the purrs and cuddles of a furry feline friend.
Below are eight eye-opening cat statistics about how much a cat costs.
The Average Range to Adopt a Cat from a Shelter Is $50 to $175
According to a post from ASPCA Pet Insurance, the approximate costs to adopt a shelter cat range from $50-$175. The range in adoption fees is due to the various breeds, ages, and any pre-existing medical conditions.
Additionally, many cats are spayed and microchipped and are given their vaccinations by the shelter, actions that are also reflected in the adoption costs.
It’s important to understand that many shelters incur a lot of extra costs when caring for cats, and these are not all passed on to the new owners.
Buying a Cat from a Breeder Can Cost $750 or Even More
The same article also compared the cost of adoption to buying a cat from a breeder. Many cat breeders will charge upwards of $750 for a cat.
Unless you are buying a pedigree cat, there is no real reason not to consider adoption. There are millions of cats and kittens in the shelter system, all eager to find their forever home.
The Capital Cost for a Cat Is up to $365
The capital costs of buying a new cat are those fixed expenses that you can essentially guarantee having to pay. According to a post on PetInsuranceReview, these costs come in at $365. Because of worldwide inflation, anticipate paying more than the specified amount.
These costs include neutering/spaying along with the basic initial veterinary checks and potentially microchipping.
Vaccination and Veterinary Care Can Cost from $300 to $550
One of the key considerations in taking a cat home is the ongoing risk of veterinary bills. According to a breakdown of cat costs published by ASPCA, cat owners should budget to spend $175 for initial medical costs and $150 for spay/neuter procedures.
Of course, there are more serious issues that can see these costs jump, and different pet insurance options can help mitigate the impact of such costs.
Tick Prevention Can Cost up to $140 per Cat
According to the same article published by the ASPCA, cat owners can expect to pay approximately $140 per year for tick and flea prevention. This cost is for each cat, an important consideration as many people own multiple kitties.
While it may seem a lot, it’s a necessary cost to keep your cat healthy.
Cat Food Can Cost Almost $225 to $870
According to a post from Met Life Pet Insurance, cat food costs about $225 and above per year per cat.
The range in prices is indicative of geographical location and brand availability, along with any special dietary requirements a cat may have.
Up to $40 to $50 Could Be Spent on Treats
The same article published by ASPCA states that cat owners can spend $36 per month on cat treats. People are spending more and more on their cats. Luckily, cat treats are one of those items that can easily be adjusted to suit your budget.
Whether you have a cat or kitten, treats will always be a financial consideration you need to make.
A Litter Box Can Cost Anywhere from $20-$750
Litter boxes are wildly varied in their pricing. According to ASPCA, a cat litter box can cost approximately $20.
A basic open litter box can be found for just a few dollars, while hooded litter boxes cost a little more, up to $20, for a simple design. However, you can also buy automated, self-raking boxes for around $200-$250, while a designer litter box could hit your wallet for $750!
How Much Does a Cat Cost Per Month?
Below are nine fascinating statistics about the monthly cost of owning a cat.
The Average Cat Cost per Month Is Around $124-$230
As per our own recent estimates, most cat owners should expect to spend $124 to $230 a month on their cat. These costs cover food, grooming, monthly insurance cost, treats, toys, and also the potential for any veterinary bills.
When bringing home a new kitty, it’s easy to get carried away with everything, but it is important to set yourself a budget and stick to it.
The Average Basic Health Care Cost of a Cat Is $500 per Year
As a cat owner, you should expect to pay anywhere between $50 and $500 per year for routine vet visits. This does not include any illnesses or vet treatments beyond the standard flea and tick treatments.
According to the Humane Society of Hurren County, an indoor cat is cheaper at just $150 a year, while an outdoor cat reaches $500 thanks to the additional treatments they need.
The Monthly Food Cost Is Approximately $50 to $70
The same article also breaks down the monthly cost of cat food. Most cats cost approximately $50 per month for food. This can vary based on budget and any specific nutritional needs the cat may have.
Some people feed their cat or kitten only supermarket dry food, while others buy gourmet raw food online and have it delivered every week.
Grooming Can Cost up to $30-$100
According to HowMuchIsIt, the cost of cat grooming can run anywhere between $30-$100 per session.
The average kitten cost for a grooming session is $30-$40, while cats over 5 months old average anywhere between $50-$100. The cost of cat grooming depends largely on the breed, as fluffy or longhaired cats will cost more than a traditional shorthair.
Cat Insurance Can Cost up to $19 per Month
A report published on ValuePenguin the average cost of cat health insurance is just $19 per month. This is based on data taken from top-level pet insurance companies.
To further break the costs down, a younger cat or kitten costs $9-$16 per month, while older cats or those with pre-existing health concerns are higher at $25-$30 per month. While you might consider saving money by not getting insurance for your cat or kitten, it really is vital.
Regardless of your cat’s age, taking out insurance early is one of those things you can’t ignore.
The Miscellaneous Cat Cost Is $30 per Month
The price of owning a cat includes a number of expected and schedulable costs. However, ancillary costs crop up from time to time.
According to the ASPCA, these miscellaneous cat costs can run upwards of $30 per month. These costs include those little extras you can’t help but buy when you’re out and about. A little bit of catnip or a second set of toys for upstairs.
Emergency Veterinary Care Can Cost from $800 to $1500
Emergency veterinary care is something pet owners should prepare themselves for. Whether you have insurance or not, keeping a little something in reserve is recommended. According to CNBC, emergency veterinary care can cost anywhere from $800-$1500.
Unexpected illnesses or accidents can easily result in expensive emergency care. This is also why the amount Americans pay for insurance keeps rising each year.
Environment Maintenance Can Cost Almost $25 per Month
Alongside the initial expenses of getting a cat, it is important to work environmental maintenance into your pet’s annual expenses budget. According to MyCatMeow, these costs can easily hit $25 a month.
Cats need to settle into their home, and they will need to claw things and no matter how many scratching posts you buy, they will always find a piece of furniture that works better.
The Entertainment Cost for Cats Can Cost from $20-$50 per Month
According to cats.com, most cats cost around $200 a year just for entertainment. In this regard, cat entertainment relates to buying toys, scratching posts, and other toys that are designed to keep your kitty happy.
Cat Annual Cost
Below are three statistics linked to the annual cost of cat care.
Approximately $575 to $1690 Is Required for Cat Care Annually
An article published by the ASPCA shows that the annual recurring cost of owning a cat can run as high as $1,150. But our estimates show it can vary from $575 to $1690. These are the must-haves that you need to account for when bringing home a new cat.
This cost considers food, litter, toys, healthcare, and recurring medical expenses such as vaccinations or annual checkups. It does not factor in the additional costs of having your cat neutered or microchipped.
The Initial Setup and Supply Can Cost from $160 to $450
As per an article from the ASPCA, the total initial expense of getting a cat can run anywhere from $160-$450. This covers all of the basic costs of getting a new feline friend.
The initial setup for a cat includes payment such as cat insurance, food and water bowls, cat goods, and a scratching post, as well as the initial adoption fees.
The First Year of Cat Ownership Can Cost from $805 to $3710
A report published by TidmoreVet revealed the eye-opening truth about the cost involved in the first year of cat ownership. Our research and study estimates the cost to be almost $805 to $3710.
From pet insurance to food and water bowls, one-time cat costs to recurring fees, and the always unexpected costs of keeping a cat healthy, expect to fork out anywhere between this aforementioned range a year.
Optional Costs of Owning a Cat
Below are the interesting statistics on the optional or additional costs of owning a cat, and you can also read some interesting facts about cats.
In addition to regular expenses, owning a cat can entail some unexpected costs for cat parents. Emergency medical bills, which can range from $500 to $1700, may arise if your feline friend faces health issues. Dental checkups to keep those pearly whites in good shape can cost between $450 to $700.
Impromptu vet visits might set you back anywhere from $30 to $150. If you’re renting an apartment, be prepared for pet deposit fees, typically ranging from $180 to $550. Pet insurance, a wise investment for potential medical expenses, costs between $250 to $400. And don’t forget the practicalities, like a litter genie, which can cost around $30 to $50.
All these additional expenses can add up, totaling between $1440 to $3550, so budgeting for your furry companion’s unexpected needs is essential.
The Cat Boarding Can Charge from $15 to $45 per Day
According to HomeGuide, the average cost of cat boarding or pet sitting is anywhere between $15-$45 per day. Pet sitting costs will vary based on the length of boarding time, the cat’s breed, age, and geographical location.
Additionally, every pet boarding facility offers something different and adjusts its prices accordingly.
Professional Grooming Can Cost up to $300 Annually
According to figures released by DailyPaws, professional grooming for cats can cost up to $300 per year.
The cost of professional grooming for cats will vary heavily based on many factors, including breed, aggression levels, coat complexity, and lifestyle. A long-haired cat that loves messing around outside will cost more than an indoor short-haired kitty.
Almost $50 Could Be Spent on Cat Gifts
A report published on StudyFinds found that 40% of cat owners would happily spend $50 on their cat for Christmas or other special occasions.
These unexpected costs cover cat toys and other little perks that will keep your cat happy throughout the year.
End of Life Cat Expense
Towards the end of a cat’s life, there are additional expenses to consider. Euthanasia costs can range from $500 to $1000, ensuring a peaceful transition for your beloved pet. Opting for cremation, a heartfelt choice, may cost between $80 to $180.
Special foods to accommodate your cat’s needs during this time might range from $50 to $200. Expect more frequent medical visits and checkups, which can add up to $200 to $1200. In total, these end-of-life expenses could amount to approximately $830 to $2580, reflecting the care and love you provide to your furry companion during their final moments.
FAQ’s
Are Cats Expensive?
Yes, cats can be expensive. However, as with any animal, cat costs are adjustable to fit your budget. There are many different brands and options out there for everything from bedding and toys to food and insurance.
If you are worried about the total cost of owning a cat, do your research before you go out and buy a new cat.
Which Cat Breed Is the Most Expensive?
Currently, the Ashera is considered by most cat experts as being the most expensive cat breed. Not only are they the most expensive cat, but Asheras are also very rare. If you want to buy an Ashera cat, you need to save money because it costs upwards of $125,000!
Which Generations Own the Most Cats as Pets?
Millennials are the generation that owns the most cats as pets. In fact, millennials own the most posts in general out of all the generations. 75% of millennials are pet owners, and 35% of them own cats.
Wrap Up
There is no such thing as a free cat. Whether you get given one or adopt one from a shelter, you need to prepare for a long stream of kitten expenses. From one-time costs to an endless parade of cat foods and pet insurance premiums, cats cost money.
However, if you ask me, the price is more than worth it because cats are amazing animals and make fantastic companions!
Whether you get a cat or kitten, you are gaining a fun new family member. Just let these statistics open your eyes to the true costs so that you fully understand what you are getting yourself into.
Are you a cat owner already? Perhaps you are looking to get your first new feline friend. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand just how much a kitten costs.
Which statistic did you find the most shocking? Let us know in the comments because we always love hearing from you!
